Proposed Pine Tree subdivision in Palermo – part 2

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by Jeanne Marquis

(See part 1 of this series here.)

Holden reports that his committee has gathered over 100 signatures to date on a petition against the approval of the proposed Pine Tree subdivision. To participate in the petition, contact Holden at heholden@fairpoint.net.

The proposed Pine Tree subdivision is planned for a 27-acre site on Hostile Valley Road (Tax Map R11, lot 27C) in a sparsely developed Sheepcot River watershed area in Palermo. The Pine Tree subdivision would include 15 buildable lots of varying sizes with each lot required to have separate wells and septic systems.

Holden, an abutting property owner to the proposed Pine Tree subdivision, said, “We are not against development – Palermo must keep up with the rest of the world, but this area is the wrong place.”

Melissa Cote, Sheepscot River Watershed Manager from the Midcoast Conservancy, wrote the following statement concerning the location of the proposed Pine Tree Subdivision in Palermo, Maine:

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There is a right place and a wrong place for most things, and this valuable ecological habitat is the right place to protect the fragile Sheepscot River ecosystem. We are specifically concerned about its proximity to the mainstem of the Sheepscot River. There is a brook that the parcel borders that leads directly into the mainstem Sheepscot River which runs into Sheepscot Lake, so water quality is a concern here. The parcel is currently forested, and forests help keep water clean, especially along streams. Forests filter pollutants from the surrounding landscape and also help to shade rivers and streams which helps to keep water cool in our warming climate. The developer is proposing 15 new lots all with individual septic systems. Septic systems are designed to remove bacteria, which is a human health concern, but not nutrients such as phosphorus and nitrogen, which can lead to algal blooms in nearby water bodies.

My understanding from the Sheepscot Lake Association is that the water quality in the Lake is fairly good and this subdevelopment could potentially threaten the water quality of the brook, river, and the lake. If you look at the Beginning With Habitat Map viewer, you can see that the parcel is part of a 1,557 acre undeveloped habitat block, has mapped deer wintering habitat, is less than 500 feet from an aquifer, and is also near federally endangered Atlantic salmon habitat in the mainstem Sheepscot River. It’s also less than a quarter mile from an even larger undeveloped forest block (5,703 acres) which is where Midcoast Conservancy has 1,100+ acres of preserved land with hiking trails. Developing within an undeveloped habitat block leads to habitat fragmentation, which is when large blocks of habitat are cut into smaller pieces and leaves wildlife with less space and freedom to move about their habitat. Overall, there are a lot of environmental concerns here, and something we’d like to communicate to people is that healthy watersheds = healthy communities. Once water quality is impaired it is very difficult and costly to restore. We think there are better places for a subdevelopment to be located than this parcel on Hostile Valley Road.

The board of the Sheepscot Lake Association expressed their concern for the preservation for the lake as well and their trust in the planning board in their statement regarding the proposed Pine Tree Subdivision:

As the board of a lake association, Sheepscot Lake Association’s focus concerns the health and preservation of the lake and watershed. We continue to encourage proper buffers to reduce erosion and restrictions on fertilizers and any runoffs that would affect this, and any water body. And we certainly want development to follow code and work closely with the local regulatory agencies. We support the planning board’s approach to the situation as they are knowledgeable about the requirements, respect the process of controlled development, and base approval on current ordinances.

After the first article on the proposed Pine Tree Subdivision, Cameron Maillet, chairman of the Comprehensive Plan Committee, felt there was confusion as to what documents would govern the approval process of the proposed subdivision. Maillet explained, “The Comprehensive Plan for the town of Palermo was written over 30 years ago and is not a binding document. The ordinance written in 2002 that does pertain to the proposed subdivision is the Subdivision Ordinance of the Town of Palermo.” The Comprehensive Plan is currently being updated. Meeting times and dates for the Comprehensive Plan Committee will be posted on the Town of Palermo website.

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The Subdivision Ordinance, which can be found on the Town of Palermo website here, is also currently being reviewed by the planning Bbard. The board’s next meeting to review this document is scheduled Tuesday, January 28 at 6 pm at the Town Office.

EVENTS: Vassalboro church to hold benefit for California fire victims

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A benefit supper will be held by members of the Vassalboro Methodist Church on January 25th to benefit the southern California fire victims. Pictured here are some members of the planning committee, from left to right, Dale Potter-Clark, Nancy Adams, Linda Millay, Cindy Shorey and Simone Antworth all of Vassalboro. (photo courtesy of Dale Clark)

by Dale Potter-Clark

Members of the Vassalboro United Methodist Church (VUMC) are holding a public supper on Saturday, January 25, to benefit the southern California fire victims. The menu will include baked beans, salads, casseroles, breads and desserts.

Thousands of homes and businesses have been destroyed in the southern California fires, as well as local schools and churches. Preliminary assessments of the damage are underway and the United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) has already awarded two solidarity grants to the California-Pacific Annual Methodist Conference to undergird their immediate relief efforts. This includes evacuee support like food and essential supplies as well as support for volunteer efforts and other relief activities. Proceeds from the VUMC public supper will assist the fire victims through the efforts of UMCOR.

The supper will take place at the VUMC, at 614 Main Street, Vassalboro, from 4 to 6 p.m., for a $10. donation. FMI email info.vumc@gmail.com or phone (207) 873-5564 and/or visit the Vassalboro United Methodist Church facebook page.

EVENTS: Vassalboro scouts to be honored on Scout Sunday

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The Vassalboro Boy Scouts of America Scouting Troop #410 and Pack# 410 will be honored at the Vassalboro United Methodist Church on Scouts Sunday, February 2. Front row, from left to right, Declan McLaughlin, Lila Reynolds, Boone McLaughlin, Metcalf, and Beckett Metcalf. Back, Cubmaster Chris Reynolds, Lux Reynolds, Cole Stufflebeam, William Vincent, Christopher Santiago, Hunter Brown, and Scoutmaster Christopher Santiago. (contributed photo)

by Dale Potter-Clark

Members of the Vassalboro United Methodist Church (VUMC) will honor the Vassalboro BSA Scouting Troop #410 and Pack #410 and their Scoutmasters at 10 a.m., on Scouts Sunday, February 2. “We want to commend our Vassalboro Scouts for their outstanding community service and good deeds,” said VUMC’s Pastor Karen Merrill. “We hope that former Scouts and leaders will also plan to attend.” A reception will follow in the VUMC fellowship hall. Family members are also invited and encouraged to attend.

The event will take place at the Vassalboro United Methodist Church, at 614 Main Street, from 10 a.m. to noon. FMI email Pastor Merrill info.VUMC@gmail.com or Chris Santiago vassalborocubscoutpack410@gmail.com.

Northern Light Health recognizes National Blood Donor Month

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National Blood Donor Month is a time to recognize and celebrate blood donors, and to remind people of the importance of donating blood. During National Blood Donor Month Northern Light Health would like to extend gratitude to those who have generously donated in the past, saving countless lives, and making a profound difference in our community.

Throughout this special month, we reflect on the significance of blood donation and its vital role in ensuring a stable and sufficient blood supply for patients in need. Every pint donated has the potential to save up to three lives, making each donor a true hero.

Our trauma surgeons care for patients who’ve had accidents every day. When you give blood, you help our surgeons deliver the care our patients deserve. “As a trauma surgeon, I witness firsthand the critical importance of blood donations on our patients’
lives,” says Amy Fenwick, MD, Trauma Medical Director, Northern Light Surgery and Trauma. “During National Blood Donor Month, I urge everyone to consider donating blood; it truly is a lifesaving resource that can mean the difference between life and death for those in need, especially during emergencies and crucial medical procedures.”

PALERMO: Community foundation receives two grants

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The Living Communities Foundation has received two grants, so there will be some improvements on Turner Ridge Road. The first, in the amount of $3,700, came from the Governor’s Cabinet on Aging through the Community Connections Program. This grant is to replace the lighted sign that was destroyed during the December 2024 storm. This grant covers materials, so volunteers will be needed to prepare footings and raise the sign. Materials are being ordered now, as some work can be done inside the Community Center before the ground thaws.

The second grant is from SeedMoney.org, a Maine nonprofit, for the Community Garden. The amount received was $2,150. This was a crowdfunding grant, so generous members of our community kindly pitched in and won us some bonus funds from SeedMoney.org. We highly appreciate this opportunity to become more involved in our community and support those with food insecurity. We have already ripped out the overgrown (20-foot high) thorny blackberry canes, and will be replacing them with gentler, thornless berry bushes. The juicy, sweet berries will be available for any family that needs them during the fruiting season. We also will be replacing several fruit trees with nut trees to create a food forest. The balance of the grant money will go toward maintenance of the back gardens and purchase of seeds, some of which will be shared with the neighbors who come to the Tuesday Food Pantry. The UMaine County Extension is also donating seeds for this purpose. We look forward to a great growing season and an abundance of food to share.

To volunteer or ask questions, please contact Connie Bellet, MGV, at 993-2294 or email pwhitehawk@fairpoint.net.

PHOTOS: A day on the ice

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Frank Richards, of Vassalboro, recently took to the ice to do some fishing. It proved to be a succesful day. From top to bottom, showing some open water at the north end of Webber Pond, and the large island. The catch was good, a bass, and two sizeable black crappie

Husson University announces Spring 2024 local academic award recipients

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Husson University announces Spring 2024 academic award recipients

Husson University has announced academic achievements of students recently named to the President’s List, Dean’s List and Honors List for the Spring 2024 semester of the 2023-2024 academic year.

Full-time online students who earn President’s List, Dean’s List and Honors List recognition must be enrolled as an undergraduate, carry a full-time load of 12 credit hours over the course of 21 weeks, complete all attempted courses in the time allotted, and achieve a designated semester grade-point average. Credits from pass/fail classes do not qualify toward meeting the minimum credit hour requirement.

President’s List: 3.80 to 4.0 semester grade-point average. Dean’s List: 3.60 to 3.79 semester grade-point average. Honor’s List: 3.40 to 3.59 semester grade-point average

Feed Abdulmohsin, of Augusta, – President’s List – BS Biology – Biochemistry.
Malak Alkattea, of Augusta – President’s List – BS Pre-Medicine.
Brayden Barbeau, of Augusta – Honors – BS Business Administration.
Alyssa Bell, of Sidney – President’s List – BS Accounting – Master of Business Administration.
Samantha Bell of Sidney – Dean’s List – BS Graphic/Visual Design.
Hope Bouchard, of Clinton – President’s List – BS Biology.
Evan Bourget, of Winslow – President’s List – BS Sport Management.
Leanna Breard, of Norridgewock – President’s List – BS Health Sciences – Doctor of Physical Therapy.
Rebekah Bucknam, of Oakland – Dean’s List – BS Nursing.
Elizabeth Campbell, of Waterville – President’s List – BS Elementary Education.
Luke Desmond, of Vassalboro, – President’s List – BS Criminal Justice.
Emma Doiron, of Augusta – Dean’s List – BS Nursing.
Alexis Dostie, of Sidney – President’s List – BS Nursing.
Warren Dowling, of Liberty – Dean’s List – BS Video/Film Production.
Emily Dunbar, of Canaan – Dean’s List – BS Nursing.
Dayton Dutil, of Winslow – President’s List – BS Exercise Science – Doctor of Physical Therapy.
Sierra Gagnon, of Sidney – Honors – BS Nursing.
Izaak Gajowski, of Winslow – President’s List – BS Elementary Education.
Rylie Genest, of Sidney – President’s List – BS Pre-Medicine.
Jaden Grazulis, of Waterville – Honors – BS Exercise Science – Doctor of Physical Therapy.
Cooper Grondin, of Vassalboro – Dean’s List – BS Business Administration- Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management – Master of Business Administration.
Trent Gunst, of Skowhegan – President’s List – BS Mass Communications – Journalism.
Joseph Hamelin, of Waterville – President’s List – BS Exercise Science – Doctor of Physical Therapy.
Gunnar Hendsbee, of Fairfield – Dean’s List – BS Criminal Justice – Psychology.
Avery Henningsen, of Palermo – Honors – BS Mass Communications – Sports Journalism with a Certificate in Marketing Communications.
Abbigail Hreben, of Oakland – Honors – BS Secondary Education – Physical Science.
Megan Huesers, of Winslow – Dean’s List – BS Health Sciences – Doctor of Pharmacy.
Jazmin Johnson, of Clinton – Dean’s List – BS Business Administration- Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management – Master of Business Administration.
Brooklyn Kelly, of Winslow – President’s List – BS Business Administration with Certificates in Hospitality, Small Business Management and Leadership – Master of Business Administration.
Jordan Lambert, of Sidney – President’s List – BS Exercise Science – Doctor of Physical Therapy.
Hannah Lee, of Washington – Honors – BS Healthcare Administration & Public Health – MS Occupational Therapy.
Timothy Lessa, of Winslow – Dean’s List – BS Health Sciences – Doctor of Pharmacy.
Madeline Levesque, of Augusta, ME – President’s List – BS Graphic/Visual Design with Certificates in Marketing Communications and Photography.
Jasmine Liberty, of Waterville – Dean’s List – BS Healthcare Administration & Public Health – MS Occupational Therapy.
Chiara Mahoney, of Whitefield – President’s List – BS Elementary Education.
Colin Manning, of Skowhegan – Dean’s List – BS Elementary Education.
Ryan Martin, of Winslow – President’s List – BS Accounting – Master of Business Administration.
Karalee Milewski, of Augusta – Dean’s List – BS Psychology.
Savannah Millay, of Chelsea – President’s List – BS Psychology – MS Clinical Mental Health Counseling.
Casey Mills, of Augusta – President’s List – BS Financial Planning.
Gage Moody, of Windsor – Honors – BS Criminal Justice – Psychology.
Lauryn Noyes, of Skowhegan – Dean’s List – BS Forensic Science.
Richard Orgill, of Fairfield – Dean’s List – BS Psychology – MS Clinical Mental Health Counseling.
Cameron Osborne, of Augusta – President’s List – BS Healthcare Administration & Public Health – MS Occupational Therapy.
Natasha Parker, of Anson – President’s List – BS Criminal Justice – BS Psychology – MHRT/C Certification.
Trevar Pease, of Canaan – Honors – BS Exercise Science – Doctor of Physical Therapy.
Kayla Peaslee, of South China – President’s List – BS Healthcare Administration & Public Health – MS Occupational Therapy.
Ryan Pelletier, of Augusta – President’s List – BS Graphic/Visual Design.
Kaden Porte, of Palermo – President’s List – BS Business Administration- Master of Business Administration.
Rylee Poulin, of Oakland – President’s List – BS Elementary Education.
Joey Ramsdel,l of Skowhegan – President’s List – BS Elementary Education.
Karlie Ramsdell, of Winslow – President’s List – BS Biology.
Mitchel Reynolds, of South China – Dean’s List – BS Exercise Science – Doctor of Physical Therapy.
Marjanna Roy, of Skowhegan – Honors – BS Criminal Justice – Psychology with a Paralegal Certificate in Advanced Criminal Practice.
Roxanne Sasse, of Windsor – Dean’s List – BS Exercise Science – Doctor of Physical Therapy.
Jackson Stafford, of Winslow – Honors – BS Mass Communications – Sports Journalism with a Certificate in Digital and Social Media Marketing.
Kara Stelly, of Augusta – Honors – BS Nursing.
Madisyn Stewart, of Oakland – Dean’s List – BS Health Sciences – Doctor of Physical Therapy.
Riley Sullivan, of Windsor – President’s List – BS Legal Studies – Pre Law with Certificates in Business Administration and Criminal Justice, a Paralegal Certificate and a Paralegal Certificate – Advanced Civil Practice.
Logan Tardif, of Waterville – President’s List – BS Health Sciences – Doctor of Pharmacy.
Alexis Trask, of Winslow – Dean’s List – BS Forensic Science.
Jenna Veilleux, of Winslow – President’s List – BS Biology.
MaryJo Wadsworth, of Washington – President’s List – BS Video/Film Production.
Jude Wallace, of Augusta – President’s List – BS Business Administration- Financial Management.
Payson Washburn, of Skowhegan – President’s List – BS Criminal Justice.
Avery Willett, of Waterville – Dean’s List – BS Hospitality & Tourism Management.

Camp Pondicherry and Camp Natarswi open registration for summer 2025 campers

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Ready for limitless fun, friends, and new experiences? Girl Scouts of Maine (GSME) is excited to announce the official opening of online registration for Summer 2025 overnight camp sessions, which began Wednesday, January 15. Prospective campers of all ages can register by visiting the camp page on our website ­– no Girl Scout experience necessary!

The upcoming season ushers in a wave of first-time and returnee campers ready to explore outdoor programs and new hands-on activities this summer. Beginning sessions in July, a wide variety of single and multi-week camp opportunities are offered at both Camp Pondicherry in Bridgton, and Camp Natarswi in Baxter State Park. Each camp provides unique, unforgettable experiences amongst some of Maine’s most scenic natural settings.

Nestled on over 600 acres in the foothills of the White Mountains, Camp Pondicherry has a private waterfront on Adams Pond and miles of untouched woodlands, fields, hills, and trails to explore. In addition to classic GSME summer camp offerings such as archery, hatchet-throwing, swimming, arts and crafts, kayaking, hiking, and fire safety, other Pondicherry-specific activities include horseback riding, theater, and more!

All of camp programs are designed to build lifelong skills and foster independence. The two-week Ultimate Camp Experience gives girls an opportunity to enjoy both of GSME summer camps.

Check out the 2025 GSME Summer Camp Guide for more information on pricing, specific camp sessions, themed weeks, programs, activities, and important dates. Whether you’re interested in classic camp adventures or specialized programs, there’s something for every camper with GSME.

Erskine Academy first trimester honor roll

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Grade 12

High Honors: Emmett Appel, Emily Bailey, Bryana Barrett, Noah Bechard, Geneva Beckim, Rylan Bennett, Octavia Berto, Jayda Bickford, Kaleb Bishop, Lauryn Black, Brooke Blais, Olivia Brann, Lauren Cowing, Kaden Crawford, Lillian Crommett, Gabrielle Daggett, Trinity DeGreenia, Aydan Desjardins, Aidan Durgin, John Edwards, Ryan Farnsworth, Josiah Fitzgerald, Hailey Garate, Ellie Giampetruzzi, Kaylene Glidden, Brandon Hanscom, Serena Hotham, Kailynn Houle, Alivia Jackson, Ava Kelso, Sophia Knapp, Jack Lucier, Owen Lucier, Eleanor Maranda, Jade McCollett, Abigail McDonough, Shannon McDonough, Madison McNeff, Addison Mort, Thomas Mullens, Makayla Oxley, Noah Pelletier, Elsa Redmond, Justin Reed, Lillian Rispoli, Laney Robitaille, Carlee Sanborn, Joslyn Sandoval, Aislynn Savage, Achiva Seigars, Jordyn Smith, Zoey Smith, Larissa Steeves, Katherine Swift, and Clara Waldrop.

Honors: Daphney Allen, Ava Anderson, Carter Brockway, Paige Clark, Madison Cochran, Dylan Cooley, Andra Cowing, Brady Desmond, Lucas Farrington, Wesley Fulton, Addison Gagne, Keeley Gagnon, Abbi Guptill, Jonathan Gutierrez, Landen Hayden, Montana Johnson, Rachel Johnson, Rion Kesel, Bodi Laflamme, Chase Larrabee, Shelby Lincoln, D’andre Marable, Lilas Moles, Elijah Moore, Colin Oliphant, Gavyn Paradis, Ava Picard, Victoria Rancourt, Carter Rau, Nathan Robinson, Kyle Scott, Emily Sprague, and Parker Studholme

Grade 11

High Honors: Connor Alcott, Emily Almeida, Addyson Briggs, London Castle, Nathan Choate, William Choate, Drew Clark, Timothy Clavette, Madeline Clement-Cargill, Claire Davis, Sylvia Davis, Joshua Denis, Audryanna DeRaps, Lauren Dufour, William Ellsey Jr., Jacob Faucher, Ethan Frost, Madison Gagnon, Stephen Gould, Kolby Griatzky, Madison Griffiths, Aiden Hamlin, Evan Heron, Mia Hersom, Halle Jones, Kasen Kelley, Talula Kimball, Timothy Kiralis, Kayle Lappin, Jacob Lavallee, Ava Lemelin, Jaden Mizera, Jack Murray, Elijah Nelson, Bayley Nickles, Jordyn Parise, Ruby Pearson, Jacoby Peaslee, Abigail Peil, Elijah Pelkey, Isabelle Pelotte, Emily Piecewicz, Taisen Pilotte, Hannah Polley, Logan Poulin, Desirae Proctor, Owen Robichaud, Brynna Rodrigue, Kameron Rossignol, Jackie Sasse, Autumn Sawyer, Edward Schmidt, Benjamin Severy, Kathryn Shaw, Madelynn Spencer, Abigail Studholme, Leah Targett, Donovan Thompson, Kammie Thompson, Addison Turner, and Finnegan Vinci.

Honors: Savannah Baker, Gavin Bartlett, Anders Bassett, Lucas Berto, Julia Booth, Brock Bowden, Addyson Burns, Benjamin Carle, Lillian Clark, Lucas Crosby, Mason Decker, Charles DeSchamp, Riley Dixon, Solomon Fortier, Willow Haschalk, Cadence Homstead, Easton Houghton, Aidan Huff, Jacob Hunter, Alexus Jackson, Natthaya Khositanont, Savannah Knight, Bernhard Kotter, Nathaniel Levesque, Kloie Magoon, Brayden McLean, Paige McNeff, Parker Minzy, Tucker Nessmith, Phoebe Padgett, Jackson Pelotte, Chase Pierce, Joeseph Pilsbury, Allianna Porter, Alexander Reitchel, Leahna Rocque, Eva Simmons, Nichala Small, Blake Smith, Benjamin Sullivan, Phoebe Taylor, Kamryn Turner, Charles Uleau, Oryanna Winchenbach, Ella Winn, Addison Witham, Brody Worth, and Maddilyn York.

Grade 10

High Honors: William Adamson IV, Isaac Audette, Olivia Austin, Ashton Bailey, Jeremiah Bailey, Linnea Bassett, Luke Blair, Jackson Blake, Silas Bolitho, Madeline Boynton, Cassidy Brann, Delaney Brown, Liam Burgess, Olivia Childs, Hunter Christiansen, Botond Csaszi, Jilian Desjardins, Ryley Desmond, Robin Dmitrieff, Logan Dow, Isabella Farrington, Gianna Figucia, Audrey Fortin, Aina Garcia Cardona, Adalyn Glidden, Bailey Goforth, Cody Grondin, Madison Harris, Eva Hayden, Lilly Hutchinson, Reid Jackson, Johanna Jacobs, Ivy Johns, Callianne Jordan, Sawyer Livingstone, Jasai Marable, Annie Miragliuolo, Alexis Mitton, Jacoby Mort, Molly Oxley, Caylee Putek, Gabriel Ratcliff, Sovie Rau, Tayden Richards, Lailah Sher, Bryson Stratton, Gabriel Studholme, Sabrina Studholme, Kaleb Tolentino, Carter Ulmer, Tyler Waldrop, and Eryn Young.

Honors: Ariana Armstrong, Delia Bailey, Benjamin Beale, Lucas Beale, Hailey Boone, Seth Bridgforth, Logan Chechowitz, Khloe Clark, Owen Couture, Slayde Crocker, Connor Crommett, Bradley Cushman, Landen DeCosta, Kiley Doughty, Kelsie Dunn, Delaney Dupuis, Gavin Fanjoy, Danica Ferris, Madison Field, Annabelle Fortier, Nicholas Gould, Kaylee Grierson, Addison Hall, Camden Hinds, Spencer Hughes, Evan James, Peyton Kibbin, Chantz Klaft, Maverick Knapp, Mason Lagasse, Bryson Lanphier, Matthew Lincoln, Jack Malcolm, Kate McGlew, Gaven Miller, Kienna-May Morse, Emi Munn, Lauryn Northrup, Madeline Oxley, Layla Peaslee, Bryson Pettengill, Teagan Pilsbury, Noah Pooler, Dylan Proctor, Samuel Richardson, Colton Ryan, Lucas Short, Ian Smith, Hellena Swift, Malaya Tagalicud, Braeden Temple, and Isabella Winchenbach.

Grade 9

High Honors: Joshua Bailey, Hunter Baird, Madeline Berry, Ella Beyea, Dominic Brann, Nicholas Carle, Ryan Carle, Lily Chamberlain, Jack Coutts, Ryleigh French, Jasmine Garey, Shelby Gidney, Kolby Glidden, Rachel Grant, Naomi Harwath, Christina Haskell, Bristol Jewett, Colbie Littlefield, Dylan Maguire, Stella Martinelli, Lainey McFarland, Ava Miragliuolo, Annabella Morris, Grant Munsey, Lexi Pettengill, Angelina Puiia, Jakobe Sandoval, Parker Smith, Khloe Soucy, Maxine Spencer, Ethan Studholme, Reid Sutter, Benjamin Theberge, Audrey Tibbetts, Hannah Tobey, Kayleigh Trask, Kallie Turner, Kinsey Ulmer, Sorrel Vinci, Mackenzie Waldron, and Leah Watson.

Honors: Clifton Adams IV, Landon Alexander, Torren Ambrose, Dawson Baker, Brooke Borja, Mackenzie Bowden, Aiden Brann, Jackson Bryant, Kenneth Cobb, Daegan Creamer, Dylan Dodge, Heleana-Marie Doyon, Taylor Gagnon, Tyler Gagnon, Riley Gould, Myla Gower, Amiah Graves, Bruce Grosjean, Griffin Hayden, Baylee Jackson, Josephine Kelly, Gabriella Lathrop, Marlin Lawrence, Dorothy Leeman, Bella Lefferts, Madison Levesque, Mason Marable, Mason Mattingly, Alexander Mayo, Orin McCaw, Ayla McCurdy, Max McKenlogue, Annaleysha McNeil, Grace Oxley, Paige Perry, Carter Peterson, Nolan Pierce, Reed Pilsbury, Brandon Piper, Camryn Prosper, Kenzie Pyska, George Roderick, Thomas Roe, Jacob Rogers, Jacob Shanholtzer, Jaylynn St. Amand, Leigha Sullivan, Eli Vallieres, and Reid Willett.

U.S. Attorney’s Office, AARP Maine, and Maine Council for Elder Abuse Prevention Launch Elder Fraud Program

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The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maine has announced an innovative new elder fraud awareness program that will utilize the inherent relationships of pharmacists and their customers to reach older Mainers. The Maine Rx Elder Fraud Program is a collaborative effort between the U.S. Attorney’s Office, AARP Maine, and the Maine Council for Elder Abuse Prevention.

“Pharmacists are consistently ranked among the most trusted health care providers, and with approximately nine out of 10 people over age 65 having at least one regular prescription, pharmacists will be a key partner in our efforts to inform this population,” said U.S. Attorney Darcie N. McElwee. “That trust and regular contact makes pharmacies an ideal conduit to reach older Mainers, as well as their family members or caregivers.”

The program, which is designed to educate Mainers on common signs of scams and how to report elder fraud, will begin at Hannaford Supermarkets’ 60 in-store pharmacies across Maine. Informational brochures will be attached to prescription bags for distribution to Hannaford pharmacy customers.

“We recognize older individuals, as well as their caretakers, make up a large portion of our customer base, and that we are uniquely positioned to help reach this audience directly through our pharmacy services as a trusted source for health and safety information,” said Sara Lane, Manager of Pharmacy Clinical Services, Hannaford Supermarkets. “We are always looking for opportunities to make a positive impact in the communities we serve and by making this information available to our pharmacy customers in all corners of our state, our goal is to help reduce the number of elder fraud incidents in Maine.”

Elder fraud is a growing problem across the nation. Last year, more than 101,000 Americans aged 60-plus were defrauded out of $3.4 billion through an ever-growing variety of scams. According to the FBI, that number included 397 Mainers who filed fraud complaints last year for losses totaling more than $7.1 million, and many others go unreported. While some scams can have negligible losses, recent sophisticated scams have robbed victims of their life savings.

“There are so many different types of scams in circulation, it can be difficult to recognize them all. Add in technology, and it becomes even more difficult,” said Jane Margesson, Communications Director for AARP Maine. “Increasingly, the scams are more sophisticated and with multiple layers, even multiple scammers playing different roles. As the schemes have become more complex, the potential losses have increased as well. Those losses can be especially devastating for victims nearing or in retirement. Some of the stories we hear are absolutely heartbreaking.”

“The actual losses are likely considerably higher than reported,” said Andrew McCormack, Assistant U.S. Attorney and Elder Justice Coordinator for the District of Maine. “For a variety of reasons, older individuals are often hesitant to report when they’ve been scammed. While it is normal to feel embarrassed when you’ve been tricked, it is important to remember that the criminals who take advantage of people are absolute pros at what they do. Older Americans are not the only victims – people of all ages and backgrounds fall prey to scams every day – but after a lifetime of saving and perhaps not being online as often and therefore as current on recent scams, they are a common, and frankly favorite, target for some of the most insidious types of fraud.”

“We are grateful to all the organizations that have worked together to make this program possible. Our collective aim is to reduce the number of people in Maine who are victimized by these cruel schemes,” said U.S. Attorney McElwee. “Sadly, there are always going to be criminals who try to take advantage and steal your hard-earned money. Recognizing red flags can help prevent you, or someone you love, from becoming a victim.”

For information about the Maine Rx Elder Fraud Program, email usame.outreach@usdoj.gov or call the U.S. Attorney’s Office at 207-780-3257.